LEWISTON — Rhea T. Bonenfant, 84, passed away peacefully on Dec. 24, at Marshwood Nursing Care Center.

She was born in Lewiston on June 7, 1926, a daughter of the late Nazaire and Rose (Bernatchez) Bonenfant. She attended Sts. Peter and Paul School, and was a lifelong member of the same parish. Her career spanned 31 years at Bates Manufacturing and then she worked at Billen Shoe before retiring.

During retirement she dedicated herself to helping others by volunteering her time and talents for many years to Sts. Peter and Paul School, serving at the monthly “bean supper” and weekdays in the school cafeteria and additionally at St. Martin de Porres homeless shelter where she and her cousin prepared and served dinner twice a month.

She enjoyed time spent with family and friends.  She had great memories of all the outings and trips she experienced during her life. All who knew her grew to love her good natured ways, generosity and deep love of family.

She is survived by a sister-in-law, Alberta (Bertha) Bonenfant of Lewiston; and a bother-in-law, Donald Beauchesne of Auburn; and two dear cousins, Rita Begin of Greene and Celeste Crowley of Durham. She is also held in memory by many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two brothers, Lionel Bonenfant and Laureat (Buck) Bonenfant; and four sisters, Cecille Phillipon, Irene McKeone, Annette Beauchesne and Rita Grenier.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at www.lynchbrothers.com.

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